Location, location, location, is all we’re thinking as we drive out to Deerfields Mall.
Saraydan translates to “from the palace” and even though it’s in a mall, there is an aristocratic touch. Armchairs, pictures and mirrors, intricate wall carvings, and hanging lamps add charm to the front-open restaurant. The only drawback? The tables and sofas aren’t in proportion, so seating is a little uncomfortable.
In the few weeks that it has been open, the restaurant has become a popular go-to for breakfast. The aromas of its freshly baked Turkish breads lure in nearby residents. We visit for a weekday lunch.
While the menu has 80 dishes, we realise the bakery, dessert and baklava sections make up more than half of it. A missing mezze section leaves us puzzled about what to begin our meal with. We decide on something from the oven. The pogaca with cheese, that is typically broken at breakfast, is fresh, light and flavourful – we can see why people choose to begin their day with a meal here.
For mains, we opt to run with our waitress’ recommendation of kofte. The meatballs are tender and juicy. The mound of rice and fries served with them are done as they should be. It’s the “grilled fresh veggies” that we are disappointed with. Two wedges of tomatoes and two quarters of capsicum do not satisfy us.
Cutting our losses, we dive back in for a dessert. We steer clear of the obvious baklava, and walk over to the display case filled with bowls of sweet treats. (The portion sizes of the desserts are generous.) The trilice caramel is almost sickly sweet; the caramelised layer doesn’t do anything to cut the sugary effects.
While none of the dishes we tried would draw us back to Saraydan, for some reason we might give it another go – maybe for breakfast.
The bill (for two)
Pogaca with cheese Dhs11
Lemonade Dhs15
Kofte and piyaz Dhs49
Trilice caramel Dhs19
Total Dhs94
The bottom line If you do find yourself awake in time for breakfast and fancy a drive, give this place a chance.
